'Steve Harvey Morning Show' co-host Shirley Strawberry’s ex-husband faces rape and fraud charges

Radio host Shirley Strawberry ex-husband, Earnest Williams, charged with rape and fraud in Georgia case

Earnest Williams, the former husband of radio personality Shirley Strawberry, has been charged with rape and sexual battery as part of an expanding criminal case in Fulton County, Georgia.

According to court proceedings, prosecutors are seeking to include a new indictment from January 2026 into an existing racketeering case against Williams. He had already been facing multiple fraud-related charges since 2024.

The case has been brought under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations Act, with prosecutors alleging that Williams carried out a long-running scheme involving numerous victims.

Authorities stated that the allegations extend beyond financial crimes, prompting the addition of more serious charges.

Williams was initially charged in May 2024 in connection with fraud offences linked to what investigators described as a large-scale scam. Prosecutors allege that he posed as a legitimate businessman to gain trust and defraud individuals.

The case involves claims that at least 25 victims were targeted, with reported losses exceeding $750,000 in cash, vehicles and other assets.

Officials further alleged that Williams used his marriage to Shirley Strawberry to build credibility during the scheme. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis said, “He would pretend to be a legitimate businessman, but he was stealing from people.”

The legal proceedings remain ongoing, with prosecutors continuing to present evidence related to both the fraud and the newly added charges.

Shirley Strawberry has been a co-host on The Steve Harvey Morning Show since its relaunch in October 2005. There has been no indication that she is involved in the case.

Williams is expected to return to court as the case progresses, with the additional charges now forming part of the broader prosecution.